PAH.

PAHAHAHAAHA!

PA HA HA HAHAHAAHAAAA!

There was nothing in the world equal in amusement to Ravenclaw banter. "Oh, Hadley, my poncho isn't that bright!" He looked down at it. "I think...ah, I'm too hungry to have a comeback, m'dear," he winked. "I was joking, though. You don't have to tell me hello if you don't want to. I hope you had a good summer!"

His stomach gave another loud rumble.

Imogen couldn’t help but smirk when she saw the girl with the poor flaking sunburn walk up to the table…the girl dearly needed a good face mask for that burn maybe one of the ones she had purchased for the Spa night would be helpful? No, no she was not going to tell a stranger to use a facemask that was all too motherly and…well, rude. Don’t be rude Imogen, she scolded herself mentally as she watched as the girl dropped down a gift in front of the breathtaking Defense Against Dark Arts professor…seriously? Where did they find him? Did he also work for LL Bean? He had the look for it.

Heck, so did River Reed. ”Presents? Oh I so love Presents,” Imogen grinned at the girl. Turning to look over to Kaysha she grinned and mouthed ”Kay, you look fabulous. Love it.” She even added her characteristic wink, the wink that always seemed to crinkle her nose whenever she tried to send it to anyone. Oh…her seatmate had arrived. ”Hello Lena, I’m Imogen…looks like we’ll be seatmates for the remainder of our careers here” she grinned at her.

”I can’t wait to see what you got Professor Hirsh deary…I hope its something fun,” she beamed at the girl almost begging her to tell them what she had gotten him. Hearing the wheeeeze that was Professor Myers aching breath Imogen leaned over to look towards him ”I’m rather glad you are not dying Paul, it would be a sad sad day to lose such a wonderful Herbology Professor” she grinned over to the olderman that had given her such a wonderful compliment as she walked in. The girl…Denaker’s reaction made Imogen laugh when she commented on the poncho. ”She does have a point Paul, it is a rather blindingly cheerful poncho” she grinned, ”it really does work for you.”

Ohhh...Oh, boy. Hadley's expression soften into a look of pure sympathy. This was hard...why did she have to be the one to have to do this? The girl took a deep sigh, and placed a hand calmly on the older man's arm, as if preparing him for bad news, or some unpleasant truth. "Not bright," she said in a soothing voice. "Just loud. Blindingly loud." The sympathy in expression gave way to a mischievous glint in her eye and a teasing smile. And then one of the new professors (Imogen) jumped in to confirm. "See? Not making this up." She gave him a wink, just in case he wasn't sure she was teasing. Because she was. But it was also true.

And he was couldn't think of a comeback. Ha! That meant she won. "I know you were joking." If he hadn't been...if he had really been mad, Hadley might have ran. Myers wasn't the type to get mad. Which meant if he ever did get mad, it was probably gonna be the most terrifying thing ever witnessed. "I had an amazing summer. Went back home," to California that is. "Surfed. Went to amusement parks." There's a lot in SoCal. "Tried hang gliding...Changed my hair, which you still haven't commented on." It's okay. She's forgave him. This time. "How was your summer?"

Oh. At the sound of Myers' stomach rumbling, quite loudly too, Hadley began digging through her robes until she pulled out half a package of Ritz crackers, and tossed it to the Professor. "That should hold you over until dinner appears."

Cynthia was back for another term. She was fresh off a trip to gather a few foreign language books. It had come to her attention that many of the students planned on further pursuing their education abroad and she wanted to be able to provide material to meet those interests and needs.

After double checking that all the books were in their proper place, the librarian made her way into the Great Hall. She nodded a greeting to her fellow staffers before taking a seat. She didn't want to be too distracting given that students had already made their way into the hall.

Once seated, she glanced in the direction of the new headmistress. She was definitely curious as to what this change would mean to the school.

Didn't he like the hair? Jordan had a neutral feeling about it. She looked cute but also childish at the same time. "That ponytail and the cotton candy colored dress? It makes you look a little bit ridiculous." He bluntly spoke his opinion to Kaysha. "Sounds good. Glad that you still remembered that you owed me your time cleaning the barn and feed the creatures." Actually, that's not why he wanted her to come into his hut tomorrow. There was something else, buuuuuut.... He should keep it as surprise.

And before he went back to his seat, there's Rosalyn greeting him. "Hello, Rose... Or should I call you Mrs. Rosalyn Marchand now?" Ahem. "Which sister... Oh, you meant Ash." Jordan has two sister but Ashley was the one who worked as a zookeeper while Eve was being a happy-go-lucky stay-home mother. "She always asked that to many women whom she met and said that they knew me." So it's not really surprising for him. "You should've mentioned to her that you're taken by a French hottie and probably will tie the knot with him pretty soon." His dark eyes gazed at Gaston who was sitting far far away there.

And hello to you too Paul Myers. Of course that the CoMC Professor wouldn't miss this man. "Nice poncho, Myers. I didn't know that you had Spanish heritage. ¿Cómo estás?" Jordan greeted him in Spanish. He has Hispanic blood from his paternal grandmother so he knew that language a little. "Still with the worm problem? Well, I told you two things: feed them cabbage or call a pest control." Seriously, he's a herbologist, why didn't he think to call someone who's more expert in this field?

The new male healer also got a greeting from him. "Good to see you here, River. Although, I should warn you that there might be some teenage girls flooding your hospital wing with a fake sickness." Well, who knew? Teenagers were C R A Z Y and H O R M O N A L. Jordan turned into Laurel. "Hmmm.... Nah, I still don't buy your inner eye prediction or something like that."

Flopping into his seat, Jordan smiled as Lena acknowledged him. "Yeah, and I am pretty sure that some students had been waiting to have a real Astronomy teacher. Seriously, not that Burbage isn't great...." Although, he had no idea about that. "But I don't think they wanted to be taught by a giggly ghost who always bat eyelashes and flirt to some good looking human beings here." Including him. But well, he IS pretty good looking.

Camilla reached for and poured herself a goblet of fresh pumpkin juice however rather then take a sip of it she simply set the goblet down turning her attention onto Roderik as he joined them. "It was rather uneventful but very pleasant, how was yours Roderik?" she asked politely in returning.

The arrival of Regina could only mean one thing. The students would be arriving very shortly. This revelation brought about feelings of excitement and slight nervousness. Was she ready to be working with much older children? She sure hoped so. "Good evening, Headmistress," Cami greeted with a warm smile. "I know I am. I have everything all set for my lessons." There was even the addition of a practice room which she hoped the students would enjoy. It wasn't much yet but if it worked out well she could always make the room much better.

From where she was seated Cami wouldn't be shouting across the table therefore most people all got warm smiles from her. Her attention was caught when she heard her name, brown eyes turning towards the Divination professor. "Hello, Laurel. Oh, thank you, I do believe it's a very light shade of blue though I very much enjoy turquoise as well." Most colors were very nice just so it wasn't overly bright and hurtful to the eyes.

"At least pleasant is calming," Camilla replied in answer to River as she looked down his way. It was much better then something having happened to ruin his summer. She knew he was the one with the large dogs but her mind had been set to ease having been assured that the pups were indeed very trained and friendly. This was good news to her as she loved animals and knew how friendly her cat was, the feline very much getting himself into a fair bit of trouble wanting attention.

"Indeed I am Kay. This feast has been on my mind all summer with you reminding me of all the foods." The brunette laughed softly sending her cousin a smile. No one could ever forget the food that was served here. It was one of her favorite things about this place.

She was just reaching for her forgotten goblet when the large doors opened and in poured all the students, minus the first years. Good, Merlin, there were lots of them. She had forgotten just how many students were here and it was making her miss her small school and her young children there. All the little ones that had cried and made her drawings when she announced she would be leaving. Letting out a soft breath Cami tried to switch her focus onto happier thoughts of a new change. A young girl (Haddie) arrived at the dais handing a gift of some sort to one of the professors. Well wasn't that sweet of the girl to be giving out gifts.

Paul's shouts at the young girl surprised Cami causing her eyes to go wide for the briefest second. Ha! Oh, he was only teasing the child with 'hellos'. That man was going to be a blast to work with it seemed. Laughing softly under her breath she watched the students all take their seats.

Imogen chose that time to make her entrance on the dais, running a little late in a green ensemble. Her best friend loved green just as much she did. Smiling warmly at her Lau responded. "Hey Imi, thank you, you look fabulous too. We both always dress well in green." Nodding she giggled "You know me too well. I burned some incense with lemongrass and roses to get some fresh smells in my tower office. Do you want some incense to burn in your office too?" It was because it had smelled stuffy and the incense had stuck to her clothes, she liked that.

Leaning forwards slightly in her seat to catch River's eye past those who sat between them at the table, Laurel chirped happily in response "Your welcome, River!" it was nice that everyone seemed to be starting off the year in high spirits. Giggling slightly she concurred "I hope our students will stay healthy and not need your healer expertise that often too, but germs tend to go around in a big school like this." It was a hazard. Germs flew around.

Catching Roses wave Laurel returned it with one of her own. Her girls out with Rose and Kay this past summer had been so much fun, she hoped for many more. "Good evening Rose," she called out across the table a smile pursing her lips. "I'm eager and anticipant for the new year to start. It'll be fun to teach again, don't you agree?"

Turning her head to return Lena's odd look in her direction with a curious one of her own Laurel asked "Lena, are you not a fan of strong scents and perfumes?" It seemed like an obvious conclusion to draw given Lena's reaction to Lau's lemongrass and rose mixture that filled the air. At least the other woman didn't appear to be allergic to the scents. If she was then Laurel would have to keep that in mind for future meals and not wear any.

Paul, lovely warm Paul spoke to her next. Turning her blue-eyed gaze to her senior colleague Laurel responded with warmth. "It is really wonderful to be back. I didn't think I'd miss the school and the students when I wasn't here, but it was a feeling that came over me when I packed up my belongings last night. Hogwarts is a lovely place to work at." And Paul's poncho was certainly something extra.

The last staffer to arrive on the dais was Cynthia; the school librarian. Nodding her head in greeting to the dark haired woman Laurel said "Good evening Cynthia, did you have a nice summer vacation?" And had any new books on divination come into the library over the summer? She was always looking for new methods to try out in order to predict the future more accurately.

Pouring up some pumpkin juice into her goblet, Laurel sipped on it when she turned her attention to Jordan who confirmed her suspicion. Unfazed she responded to him after swallowing. "I see, well maybe you'll change your mind. Things I have predicted in the past have happened." Yes most of the time it was just guesses but sometimes the guesses became real.

If only Cami didn't sit so far away from her, but that was how the seating was arranged in alphabetical order. It wasn't likely to change. Blue eyes drifting to the right end to catch Cami's eye she responded "Light blue, looks good on you. Turquoise I like too but I feel it's a hard colour to combine with other colours. Are you looking forward to begin teaching transfiguration tomorrow to the students?"

He smiled over at Imogen. "Oh, hush hush!" he snorted. "MY PONCHO ISN'T THAT BRIGHT!" It was actually kind of natural toned, wasn't it?! "Whatever! If you think so, fine! I can agree it is LOUD." Because clothing should be fun, right?

"Ahhh, California. I've been once...I don't remember much of that trip," he cleared his throat and skirted over thaaaaaaat little tidbit since it was HADLEY. "But I do know I liked it. Are you as good at surfing as you are at keeping out of trouble?" he asked with a wink. "I would be bloody awful. Just awful. I don't always have the best balance, you see." And that was perfectly okay with him because surfing didn't seem much his forte. "I had a nice and relaxing summer, thank you. I had a Hufflepuff party at my estate in Venice...I was sad to see no one had dragged you along." Many of his students hadn't been dragged along that he would have LIKED to have seem. "You don't have any Hufflepuff friends, Hadley?"

He caught the crackers and tore the bag open and grabbed a handful before gobbling them all up. "Ahh, yes, thank you! These are good." Nothing said delicious like fake, orange cheese in between semi-edible crackers!

Paul still loved ritz crackers, though.



The librarian was here! Ever quiet, and always a bit serious-looking, Paul smiled over at her. "Hello, Cynthia! How was your summer?" he asked cheerfully.



Paul chortled over at Jordan. "Spanish? Anyone can wear a poncho!" he said with a laugh. "I've been wearing ponchos for years." Like..thirty, to be exact. Probably more, actually. "I am so scared to call pest control.." he sighed. "We'll figure it out, we'll figure it out. It's not a problem," he smiled.



He smiled over at Laurel. "It is, it is. You packed LAST NIGHT? How last minute!" he teased, the man who also packed like, last night for the entire school year. With the help of Milton, of course. And his husband could always send him things over the course of term if he had forgotten anything.

"Did you have an interesting summer, Laurel?"

Hadley was just opening her mouth to ask Myers about his own trip to California when he quickly covered it up. Oh. "Too bad. You should definitely go again, and remember it this time." Sage advice, that. You're welcome. Of course he liked it though, who wouldn't? Not that she was biased or anything. Nope.

Hads nodded. "I've been surfing since I was old enough to stand a a surfboard." Wild exaggeration, that. But at the same time, not too far from the truth, really. Kinda. She had to actively keep from snickering at the mental image of Paul Myers, Herbology Professor trying to surf, and waved it off with a flick of her hand. "Falling off isn't bad though. It's just water. Mostly."

Wait, he had a house in Venice...no, estate. He said estate. "Venice, Italy?" There was no attempt to hide her utter surprise. Merlin, how much did Hogwarts professors make? It really was a shame she didn't get invited along...Professor MYERS, who was in full control of the invite list! "I have some Hufflepuff friends. Esme Darcy, and Isa Wright," to name a couple. She wasn't gonna say that that was the whole list really. The others were more just acquaintances. "You." She did consider him a friend. "And, hey. Next time you want to see me at one of your Puffer parties, invite me!" Novel concept, eh?

Hadley smiled while Myers enjoyed the crackers. "I always bring snacks along on the train, so I can save my coins for other stuff."

Gaston beamed at Rose's compliment. Personally he didn't think he looked all that great, but it was so sweet of her to say so! "Thank you," he replied, but he gave her a confused look upon overhearing what she said to Kay. Who was Ansley? Was he missing something? It took him a minute to realize she was only joking, and he felt sheepish. He gave her one last adoring look before taking his seat at the other end of the table. Merlin, he was really beginning to dislike this assigned seating!

He was glad to hear Paul had a good summer, and no, the eyebrow wiggle wasn't lost on him. "My summer was great too," he said, keeping his answer short and sweet. Okay, that was a huge understatement, but it was as much detail was Paul was going to get. A gentleman doesn't kiss and tell! Gaston blinked in surprise at Sokolov's greeting to Paul. That seemed a bit... unkind. He wasn't sure if that was menat to be a joke or an insult, though it wouldn't surprise him at all if it were the latter. The thought crossed his mind to say something, but Paul seemed to take it in stride so he didn't. Blue eyes widened in concern as Paul began to cough and wheeze. He looked around, panicked. Should someone do something? Before he could react, the coughing stopped though. "Merlin's beard! Are you alright, Paul?"

Gaston returned River's smile before turning his attention back to Professor Salvatore. Oh, that's right! She was a Hogwarts graduate; he had forgotten about that! "Very well, Caroleena," he said. Merlin, that was going to take some getting used to! He'd never called her anything but Professor before, even when he was a teaching assistant. He laughed a little when she said Hogwarts was different from Beaubatons; that was an understatement! "I wasn't sure at first, but I've come to like it here."

"Good evening, Imogen, Cynthia, Jordan," Gaston greeted the three people who arrived after him, but Jordan's comment to Rose made him nearly choke on a sip of pumpkin juice. What was that?! First he tells Kay she looks ridiculous, now this... he was in rare form tonight! He wasn't sure sure if Jordan was making fun of Rose or trying to be funny, but he decided to give him the benefit of the doubt... for now anyway. He glanced at Rose, trying to gauge her reaction to all this. He hoped she wouldn't be upset! If she was... he didn't even want to know what he would do!

His face had blushed to the same shade of red as Rose's dress, and he bowed his head, pretending to look at his watch to hide it. Gaston kept his eyes on the sorting ceremony, hoping to distract himself from what had just happened. It warmed his heart to see so many new young minds. But what was this? It seemed one child (Mr. Botros) was unhappy with his new house. The poor little guy! He couldn't stand seeing his students in pain, physical or emotional; there was no way he was leaving him like that! "I'll be right back," Gaston mumbled.

Now that this was getting cosy, Justin leaned casually back into his chair. He didn't look quite as swag as Arty the Potions master always did, but with his attire he was giving him a good competition in his head.

Now it was only a matter of time as the rest of his colleagues filled in, students would be arriving shortly after their pep talk on the rest of their houses. He was excited about the newly sorted snakes, he was most excited for this. Answering even more cheerfully than his usual self to those who asked about his summer following their polite greetings.

"Paulie, my good man." Clapping his shoulder before he took his seat. Least only one seat filled the gap between them. Laughing quite loudly at his comment, "Why thank you, you're not so bad yourself with that bright poncho of yours." Giving a soft wink. "How was your time with the puffers?"

"Evening Headmistress." Such a beauty she was, smiling his usual way as she took her seat near him. Speech was coming so soon now.

Ahh, there was his cousin. "Laurey! I certainly did, Zach and I took little Lucy to Disney once we got back." Nothing but joy for him, "How about you? You see anything good happening this term?" Something related to him and his house perhaps? There was sweet Kay, "Aw, thank you Kay. It was wonderful, right when we got back home we took little Lucy over to Disney." Her summer was quiet? Shame. "Well then, next summer you should pop on by! We'd love to see you again."

"Thanks River, we marked the day in July. Are you having a good evening?" What a nice man, his smile softened at the congrats. Before it turned into a smirk from a certain comment from a certain man. "Roooderik." That man was something else.

"Heylo Viktor. It was great. How did your summer go?" Laughing as Imogen mentioned making a visit. "Thanks Imogen, I'll have the biscuits ready then."


Finally the students were pouring in. Justin couldn't help but feel chuffed at his selections to represent Slytherin. They were serious enough to even help him with the little rugrats earlier. Perhaps a treat was in store for them later... Well, maybe he out to wait and see how the feast turns out beforehand. Offering a whistle at each new Slytherin sorted, his pride swelled even more.

Afterward, it was a bit of a surprise to see Miss Denaker already over here, but much more to hear Paul's booming voice. His eyes maaay have turned to him before a small smirk played on his face, he had to have been joking with the randomness. Heh. And he was indeed. Welp, least it wasn't him shouting again. If she had looked his way at any point she would see him nod in greeting. Right before turning his head to watch his table. Hmm..

Ouch. Why did Jordan’s comment hurt her like that? She kept her expression from showing her feelings, however. “Thank you for your opinion. I feel rather comfortable in this dress and I thought I’d try something different for my hairstyle. You don’t look half bad yourself though.’’ Kay thought he was quite the looker. “Is it too late to back out from our deal?’’ she asked as a joke. She would be there tomorrow for sure, cleaning or no cleaning.

“Why thank you, Imogen! I must say, you look adorable as well!’’ My, my! Weren’t the ladies on staff quite something with their senses of fashion? “Hello, Cynthia! I’m glad you’re back for another year.’’

“It’s not my fault you love to eat, Cami,’’ Kay replied with a laugh. “You still don’t gain weight though! I have to work out practically everyday just to keep in shape. Maybe now that you’re here, you’ll join me on morning runs?’’

“You have the perfect little family, Justin! I’m sure Lucy had a great time.’’ Kay was in love with little Lucy and she adored Justin and his hubby. They were so cute together! “Perfect! I’ll surely drop by! I have a few muggle board games that I think Lucy would love.’’

Kay laughed softly. “I’ll gift you a dress of another colour for the Christmas so you’ll have to. If you don’t wear it, I’ll feel bad.’’ So there, Rose! Now, if Kay had been eating, she’d surely choke or on the better side, if she were drinking something, she’d spew the liquid all over Rose’s face. “What? Where did you hear that we were dating, Rose?’’ Was someone spreading rumours about her and Ansley? It was only a second later that she realised Rose was pulling her leg and she laughed again. “Ansley and I aren’t a thing. He’s interested in someone else.’’ Her bestie had told her all about that Zachary. She lowered her voice, not wanting to spread her friend’s business around but was only telling Rose because Rose thought they were an item. “He’s into guys.’’ Unfortunately for the ladies of the world because Ansley was hawt.

"Hello there Justin," Art said to the Slytherin Head of House, amongst other titles. "Yes, but it went too quickly. And yourself?"

As others started to rock up, Art said a hello to them all. "Hello, good to see you all again." There was Rosie, Caroleena, Laurel, River, Roderik, Gaston, Jordan, Imogen, and Cynthia.

Art beamed at his friend Paul, who had given him a very nice compliment. But just when he thought he'd scrubbed up exceptionally well he heard Paul complimenting everyone else. He didn't mind, though. "And you look.. er.. g-great too. Very earthy," he complimented. Yes, he meant it as a compliment to the herbologist. "How are you this evening?"

"Hello Cami," Art said to the new staffer, and his friend Kay's cousin as he had learned, thanks to PAUL. He was quite chuffed to be sitting between the two cousins. Kay was wonderful and very kind, and he was sure Cami would be as well. "Are you happy to be back?"

"Ahh Regina, hello there," Art said warmly to the new Headmistress.

Art frowned in concern to Viktor, who apparently has been better. "Me, oh no complaints. But wh-what's the matter? Is there anything I can help with?" Because as a previous healer, a father and a grandfather, the Potions Professor had a sense of nurturing in him. He cared, and wanted to help wherever he could. He wasn't, however, a hoverer, and he was prepared to nod and move on if Viktor didn't wish to speak about his concerns.

"Oh yes, I am too. I hope the poltergeists stay away," he chuckled to Kay. He didn't want any of their troubles this term. He'd had enough of them. "Are your lessons planned yet? I still have a few to go but I think I'm set." He had planned a few with the help of his daughter, who was a planner. Much like her mother. Madame Curie let out a few contented squeaks, and Art gave her a pet.

And there was Miss Denaker! "Good evening," he said to her, with a smile, as she offered him a smile. It had been marvellous to see her playing quidditch and in a play over the summer.

A small smile grew on her face as she listened to her colleagues' returned greetings and responses. The ones that said that they were ready for the new term earned her approval instantaneously. "Excellent," Regina responded pleasantly. She hoped that they would continue to be just as prepared and professional in the months to come. It was another hope of hers that certain members of the staff joined that bandwagon.

That smile quickly became a forced one the moment she took in the creature on Arthur's shoulder and the man that the governors had hired as the school's deputy. The rat was a surprising sight. A thought quickly fleeted through her mind: had her predecessors allowed the staff to bring their animals to the table? She was about to ask Justin, but then Paul started to loudly wheeze like a kneazle. Her mouth opened to say that she was doing quite well, but she turned her head to those who were speaking to her before she suggested River take him upstairs to the hospital wing to drink a potion and find a new outfit.

When Viktor spoke, an eyebrow rose even though she tried to maintain an expressionless face. "When students are not present, Regina would be preferred. Otherwise Headmistress Hawthorne will do."

Imogen and Rosalyn's compliments on her attire made the smile genuine again. "Thank you, ladies," the American replied to the two professors. "You're too kind."

The creaking sound of the Great Hall doors opening then briefly caught the woman's attention. She glanced over just in time to see the first students enter the room and take their seats and, a few minutes later, another group gathered around near the stool. Her first observation of the sorting was that it wasn't as intense as it was back in Ilvermorny. The hat seemed to have made up its mind fairly quick for a lot of them, whether or not it was what the student wanted. Nonetheless, each student received recognition from her.

She almost did a double take when the two familiar names were called in succession and they each took their turn with the old hat. The Westwood boys were at Hogwarts now? A mental note was made to summon them to her office in the near future to see if they were adjusting to Hogwarts just as well as she was.

A sudden shout, not belonging to the Sorting Hat, startled her. Her head jerked to the side to face Paul who had just yelled at a Ravenclaw. For a moment Regina thought he was going to scold the girl for not being where she needed to be, but then he went on about how she didn't say hello to him and started talking about their summers. The woman placed a hand beneath her chin and stared at them, giving them both a look that screamed 'Is this really the appropriate time for this conversation?' She certainly did not think so.

Her gaze would have remained had there not been a commotion from the sea of green robes. There were three distinct voices that made her eye twitch. She had heard about the poltergeists, but she hoped that they were just rumours. One poltergeist, in her opinion, was one too many.

Once the roll was thrown, the Head Girl started yelling, and the Slytherin ghost made his appearance, she took her cue to stand from her seat and loudly walked around the table to the owl-shaped podium.

"Good evening, Hogwarts," Regina said intrepidly, pausing for a moment as her greeting echoed throughout the entire hall. "I would like to begin our feast by introducing my fellow colleagues who are new to the school this year. First and foremost is Professor Imogen Greyvson, who will be teaching you the magical properties of numbers in Arithmancy. Taking the Astronomy posting and guiding you through the galaxies is Professor Carolina Salvatore, and Professor Camilla Stewart is your go-to person for all matters concerning Transfiguration. Lastly, Mr. River Reed is the new healer who will keep you all in tip top shape over the course of the term. Please join me in welcoming these new faces."

Her hands clapped together, leading the applause for the new staff members. When there was a lull, she then added, "And please join me in congratulating Professor Paul Myers, who has accepted the position of Deputy Headmaster after several years of loyal service to the school as professor of Herbology and Hufflepuff Head of House." She applauded the man for his accomplishment, in spite of her feelings toward his choice of clothing and unnecessary shouting.

As the hall became quiet once more, she continued on with her last announcement. "After several years of being a curse-breaker and teaching Defence Against the Dark Arts at Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for even longer," -- as well as other circumstances -- "I made the decision to cross over the pond for what I am sure will be a memorable experience. My name is Regina Hawthorne, and I am your new headmistress."

There was a brief moment for an applause, though the woman didn't allow for it to last long. Food was to be had before it went cold or the poltergeists did something that would force them to depart with empty stomachs.

"With all the introductions and updates behind us, I wish you all a school year full of many learning moments and great achievements." Unless they wanted to make an unpleasant appearance in her office. The choice was theirs. "In the meantime, I present to you our feast."

Following a graceful wave of her hand, food and drink materialized on each of the tables and the woman click-clacked her way back to her throne-like chair.

There was a vaguely yellow-and-blackish blur accompanied by the sound of high pitched squeals of excitement moving in the direction of excitement moving in the direction of the staff table. More precisely, there was a very excited Hufflepuff girl running up to congratulate her Head of House and absolute favorite professor ever on his new position as Deputy Headmaster. Isa wasn't planning on making this a very long visit though, because she was busy making friends with every single one of the new Hufflepuffs and she didn't want to miss out on talking to them. Bouncing and shrieking, Isa arrived at the staff table near where Professor Myers was seated. She did her best to stop the shrieking so as not to disturb the staff members too much from eating, but her voice still sounded somewhat shrieky from all the excitement, and she was still very bouncy. Isa had a big smile on her face. "PROFESSOR MYERS!!!" Bounce, bounce, bounce, bounce, bounce. "Congratulations, Deputy Headmaster!" This was so exciting! More bouncing. What was that other thing she was going to say? It was hard to remember when she was so excited. Oh, she remembered! "Oh, and I thought you might want to know that one of our firstie puffs is absolutely terrified by all kinds of plants." Poor Derf. Something would have to be done to make him feel comfortable. Maybe he would be able to get over his fear of plants. Still bouncing with excitement, Isa left the staff table and ran out of the great hall to go find the loo before returning to the Hufflepuff table.

Not all good things last, especially the fleeting moments of calm. River, and the rest of the staff didn’t need to wait that long for the students to arrive. The first few eager beavers have trickled in through the colossal door, and moments later, the hall was filled with thunderous footsteps and jovial chatter amongst students. River took the moment to take everything in, a small grin across his lips as the first student was called to be sorted; he forgot how exciting and sickening the moment was. A pair of observant eyes examined one sortee to the next, and was mildly amused by how they handled the initiation process. Some took it in stride...the others, not so well. River tracked the first boy, a Hufflepuff by the name of Derfael, noticing how shaken the young master was by the sorting. Had the Sorting Hat grew even grumpier these past few years? It had been brutally honest with him, and River was clever enough not to hide his thoughts from it. In fact, he’d laughed at it mentally at how...cynical it could be. The next was a Gryffindor...another young master named Abraham, and the young fellow was not stingy with his disappointment. River hid his amusement by putting his index finger on top of his lips...and looked down at his lap. If anything, it was the most Gryffindor thing he’d ever seen in years. Yes, Master Botros will do very well in the house of the Lions.

And while the Sorting happened, River did not miss the other happenings at their table. He had silently regarded the returning Ravenclaw, Miss Denaker, of which Paul was dear enough to shout her name for everyone to know. She kept crackers in her person? A very wise move indeed! River highly approved. Why stock up on sugar during the train ride when you can go for healthier options, yes? Instead of eavesdropping on her conversation with Roderick and Paul, the Healer busied himself with acknowledging Kay, Art, and Rosalyn. Not long after, his attention was pulled back by the Deputy Headmaster. “I thought it was just appropriate,” He was after all, older than him. “Paul, then.” River grinned at the man only to drop the expression as soon as he started wheezing. The man was quick to assess things, patting his back as Paul keeled over his plate, and handed him a napkin to use. He wouldn’t want his dear poncho ruined by the drink, yes? “Make sure it’s all out though. You don’t want pumpkin juice in your lungs...” And yes, that’s trouble seatmate number two.

River sat back on his seat, his eyes lingered on Paul a little longer just in case his pharynx and larynx decide to collapse. He was after all in his 60s already, and he’d really hate to have Paul as his first hospital wing visitor. “Hmm?” the Healer turned his attention back to Jordan and just...gave a, ‘what-did-you-say?’ kind of expression. Flooding his section of the third floor with fake illnesses? What, to get away from classes? Because heck yeah he’d so do that if the subject didn’t interest him...or if the female healer was really good looking. “I...hope not,” He said in his amused tone, addressing Laurel as well. “For the sake of their health...and their missed lectures, I really hope they won’t.” No one in staff would like to see a student missing from their class, yes? Turning his head to his left, he leaned over to get a better view of Camilla, “I have to agree with you there. Given that we have to deal with...” he trailed off, gesturing his hand towards the student body.

River then went on to smile at the Librarian, as he sat back comfortably to continue watching the Sorting, and then shortly after, listened to the Headmistress’ speech. The Healer gave everyone a pleasant grin from his perch, looking from one table to another, his eyes finally landing on his nephew, Jace. Why was he hiding, by the way? His attention however went to Gaston who hurriedly went down the dais after Regina’s speech and just...mildly gawked at him. Surely, him and Master Botros are not related? And...he was more than sure that Hogwarts was a secondary boarding school that was meant to toughen up young witches and wizards, and not be treated as a year-long daycare nursery centre. River closed his mouth as his nose got a waft of the food that appeared before them, and instead looked at his plate longingly. The man internally groaned, knowing full well that he will reach his calorie limit for the night, and that he would have to burn all those calories early in the morning tomorrow.

Justin’s voice broke his thoughts, and the man grinned at him, “A summer wedding, I see. It must’ve been really blissful.” No summer rains, hopefully? “Wouldn’t it be hard though? You’ll be here all term managing the grounds and some of the students?” Justin must’ve been lucky tying the knot with an understanding...wife? Partner?

River started with his mashed potato when another student came up to their table announcing that a student was terrified of plants. All kinds, according to her. Does that mean that said student was terrified of the grass as well? Poor kid. He must’ve been locked up in a concrete jungle or something. Midway his dinner, River looked up from his plate to see the slight commotion at the Slytherin table. When he left Hogwarts for Castelobruxo, there was only Peeves...and now there's three of them? The healer blinked and slowly chewed on his food, obviously torn between being disgusted and amused. Huh.

Welcome back, River Reed.

It took Hadley way too long to notice the new Headmistress staring at her and Myers. Awkward. The headmistress' expression would have been readable from low Earth orbit. Not really the best impression to make on the new Headmistress.

Oops.

Hadley bit her lip sheepishly, nodding herself. She let the silence hang awkwardly in the air for a moment. "I should probably..." Hads pointed a thumb over her shoulder at the Ravenclaw table. "Yeah...See you in class, Professor." She took a few steps backward before spinning and heading straight for the Ravenclaw table.

Giggling at Paul's surprised reaction Laurel grinned, accompanied by a slight head nod in his direction "Yes i packed LAST NIGHT. Even women can be bad packers, you know? I just kept adding and taking away clothes and stuff. It's hard to pack for an entire school year. Thank Sibyll for owl package deliveries if i realize that I've forgotten something important." Like her favourite teapot or tart deck or her most beloved poncho. She had her own collection just like Paul. but she rarely wore hers unless it got really cold in her tower.

After stealing a sip of pumpkin juice from her goblet she turned her attention back to Paul. "I had a good summer with many highpoints like my girl's outing with Rose and Kay in DA, visiting sunny Gran Canarias and of course attending Justin's wedding."

"How was your summer Paul?"



Cousin Justin stole her attention next as he shared where he and Zack had cute little Lucy on vacation. Smiling broadly Laurey asked "Did Lucy and Zack enjoy Disney? Was that where you went on your honeymoon?" She knew she had when she had gone to the one in Paris with her parents and siblings when she had been 8. Smiling she said "Yes I had a lovely summer, I travelled too. I went to sunny Gran Canarias with Oliver. He thought we could both use some sun and warmth and some water on our skin." And better love lives, but she didn't say that out loud. The feast was not the place for that.

Laurey paused to look down in her pumpkin juice goblet before she responded to Justin's question in a light-hearted jokey tone."Oh you know I've just seen the usual. That a darker time is coming and that the grim is knocking at our door." But it really wasn't anything to worry about, yet. Many times her Inner Eye just showed her things to warn to prepare for the worst but if the bad stuff actually ended up occurring wasn't always certain.



Laurel would have wanted to converse more with her cousin but that Regina stood up and took her stand at the podium to give her speech put an effective end to that. Folding her hands in her lap she listened attentively as their headmistress addressed the student body. How interesting that she had previously worked at Ilvermorny as a DADA professor. Then their headmistress would know how to make the school a secure place. Would she believe in predictions? She'd have to ask when the opportunity presented herself, maybe in the staff room after the feast?

The speech ended some moments later and the feast appeared in all its delicious glory on the table in front of her. The house elves had outdone themselves again.



Helping herself to the food Laurel's eyes went to the vegetable bowls near River and thus her attention was somewhat distracted when she heard his comment to her and it took a moment before she grinned in response. "Oh Sybill forbid, we can't have them miss their lectures. It'd be bad for the students to miss important knowledge." What if they missed learning how to pronounce a spell correctly? It could effect their whole lives.

Deciding against taking any vegetables Laurel instead filled her plate with some meat, gravy and potatoes and a piece of chocolate cake for dessert and started to eat. The house elves got too little credit for their delicious food.

Paul was about to answer everyone. Hadley, Art...Just, Gaston....Laurel...but then the headmistress stood up...AND IT WAS SPEECH TIME YAS. That meant FOOD SOON. He hoped he didn't choke on his food >.>

Seeing as he had almost DIED a few seconds ago from drinking his drink...he hoped he could eat correctly, you know. Her speech was pretty good, she was an excellent speaker...new staff members, yada yada YA....and then DEPUTY. Well. Paul felt his cheeks go red as he merely smiled and waved...trying not to look at any of his colleagues because he couldn't explain why he felt this way...but humble, perhaps? Like...he felt a little overwhelmed. Embarrassed but in a good way?

But food was soon here and he could shove enough in his mouth to merely wave at Hadley as she walked away...and not have to talk to anyone! Wahoo!

....he spotted Isa...and he raised an eyebrow. "Thank you, Isa....and...well...that's.....too bad, isn't it?" Because Paul was THE Herbology professor. "I hope we can help the person get over that! Go and enjoy your food, little miss, or you'll be hungry later!"